November 27, 2013
I hope everyone is doing well. I can smell the turkey now. Granted there really isn't turkey around here that we have found except for the street vendor (Chef Anton) that yells "U.S. Roast BEEEEEF, U.S. TurKEYYYYYYY." We are going with a Thanksgiving ham. Not sure when we will make it-- Thursday here, or Thursday time in the states-- the jury is still out.
I do not do the November days of being thankful on Facebook, but I sure enjoy reading them from everyone. Mine would be the same... Thankful for health, safety, for my family, for my wife and this opportunity we have embarked upon, and thankful for a lot of other things that may be a little more materialistic compared to what millions of locals endure daily.
I met a local guy today that puts the whole Thanksgiving idea in perspective. The rain has been subsiding so I have been going to the pool more often. The best time is about Noon-three in the afternoon. Mornings are good but the pool is not heated, so it is COLD. It can be chilly in the PM, but at least the sun is beaming down on me and my aqua-robics.
Today at the pool I got in and there were two others who were already treading water. One was an older guy doing laps. Another was a younger, Filipino kid probably 18 or so. He was just walking around in the pool. I got in and exclaimed, "COLD." much to the laughter of the younger pool patron. I did some laps and then took a break by the edge of the pool as another group got in and fought the cold water. The younger kid came by me and asked me probably the number 2 question I get here. Number 1 is, "Is your wife Filipina?" which came later. Just behind it is, "Are you from the U.K.?" He thought I looked just like people from London.
HA! No. I told my new friend, Florence, I am from the U.S. He replied that he just moved here, too. . . from Tacloban (the hardest hit area of the Typhoon). Florence continued on to tell me a ton of stories, some heartbreaking, some funny, some a little far fetched. Even if he was at an 80% truth rate, he told me some amazing things. Among his stories were:
--He moved into his Aunt's condo with his 2 sisters. His Mom and Dad stayed behind to protect what was left of their house.
--The house was devastated by Yolanda. What was left got picked over by looters. Thus, his parents are watching what is left to prevent any more looting.
--His Dad has shot 3 looters.
--They are staying here for 2 months or so and then he is going to college.
--They had advanced warning of the storm, but nowhere safe to go, so they had to wait out the storm in the house.
--He still has nightmares of the sound the storm made. The waves pounding the house, the wind, the water coming in... all images he gets when he tries to sleep. PTSD. The worst he said is the dead bodies he saw floating. Some were friends, some were neighbors, some were just other citizens. He can't forget the bloated bodies. I bet not. That sucks.
--He also was a looter. after a few days of not being able to eat, he went and got fruit for his family. Then, he decided to go to a grocery store. Worried about the rice and other items, he went after anything international as he figured it was safe. He looted can upon can of. . . SPAM! The family stayed alive thanks to Spam.
--I was advised that I need to learn curse words in Tagalog. The locals allegedly will respect a guy saying the native version of "BS."
--Florence said to never, ever eat the Sardines here. They cannot be trusted. Guess I will be tossing my half eaten jar.
--He shares my sentiment that Manny Pacquiao will someday be President of the Philippines.
--There were huge delays in aid because of a political fight between the Mayor of Tacloban and the current President of the Philippines. I explained to him that politics and gridlock happens in America, too.
So, as Thanksgiving approaches here... I am so thankful for Suzy, Vince and our health here in the Philippines. I am blessed to have a wonderful family, great in-laws and the best friends. Suzy and I and the millions here were survivors technically of the worst typhoon in world history. We, however, did not survive like so many others that clung to life. They are thankful for another day on earth.
Take care of yourselves everyone. This Thanksgiving, laugh a little louder, hug your loved ones a little tighter and remember to be thankful for everything we have been blessed with. Enjoy!
Chuck
Wednesday, November 27, 2013
Chilling in the Philippines--Manny Pacquiao fight
Good day everyone! Hope everyone is ready for the holidays!
It is hard for Suzy and I to fathom we have been here 3 months already. In addition, its hard to believe its almost December. We are so conditioned by the seasons, that 90 degrees daily has us thinking its still August. I am ready for the State Fair it feels like.
Last week we decided it would be a great cultural experience to go to a big screen and watch local hero Manny Pacquiao fight. The match was just a couple hours away in China and being shown on Sunday morning. Manny is fighting the local version of the IRS on taxes, but otherwise... he is regarded as a national hero. He is a Congressman, boxer, and the locals LOVE him. I talked to a few people and he embodies the spirit of the common Filipino. He grew up dirt poor and was able to make the most of his life. He brings hope.
The day before the fight, Suzy and I went to the cinema to get advanced tickets. One chooses their seats for this so we thought it was a good time. Our jaws dropped when we saw about 100 people in line. "Oh no!" We figured we would never get tickets. Well it wasn't manny people were in line for. I forgot it was Hunger Games 2 time. We were able to procure our seats and be on our way. The poster said 8 am.. Ok... 8 am fight we are there.
Sunday arrives. I am a little groggy because I was up all night following Iowa beating Michigan. Suzy was groggy because Saturday is a tough sleeping day/night for her. She gets home Saturday AM and its tough adjusting. We head to the Cinema for the Sunday fights and NO one is around. Well I look at the ticket and its actually 9 am. GREAT. We then stumble down from the 4th floor (the mall down escalator was off) and head to a coffee shop. A cup of joe later, we wasted time and it was 9 am.
Trip #2 to the cinema still didnt have a lot of people there. Fights were on and the screen had a countdown until Pacquiao/Rios. What it didn't say is that it was the countdown until the PPV began, not the fight. Now, poor Suzy is not a boxing fan. I like it, but she does not. So getting her there for 2-3 fights was going to be a chore, 2-3 fights and then a full undercard... OH my! I owe her big time.
PPV begins finally and we take advantage of freebies. our 700 peso ticket (15 bucks) also got us a hot dog on a stick and a box of milk. We watched the first fight and ate our hot dog and drank cow's milk in a box. The 3rd fight we caught a break as one fighter said his version of "No Mas" after the 3rd round and quit. by the time of the fight before the main event, it was a full house.
Finally, time for Pacquiao v. Rios. First the United States National Anthem was played. We sure felt a sense of pride. Although we were rooting for Pac Man, it is a big deal. Then the Philippines National Anthem was sung... wow, what an experience. It wasn't Jim Cornelison Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Finals, but it was cool. People were singing loudly. I could appreciate their pride.
"Let's get ready to Rumblllllllllllllllle!"
The fight itself was fairly anti-climactic. Congressman Pacquiao dominated the whole fight. What was fun was feeling wach punch through the sounds on the screen and the sounds of the crowd. They were over dramatic on each punch. Then came the Chants. "Manny, Manny, Manny!" and "Pac-ee-ow!" That lasted 12 rounds. It was loud.
Finally, after a beat down ... 12 rounds were complete and it was time to get to the scorecards. Manny wins! WHOO HOOO! The crowd went nuts... One lady tried videotaping the screen. It was fun to see an usher swoop in and enforce their strict no video policy. DELETE DELETE DELETE. Whew, because I was going to take a picture of the final results...
The fight was over, it was 1:30 and our nearly 6 hour odyssey had reached its final round. Ding Ding. For a part of the day, I felt as if I was also part of the Filipino spirit. With so much going on... it was nice to see some good news for the people down here.
Take care of yourselves Everyone.
Chuck
It is hard for Suzy and I to fathom we have been here 3 months already. In addition, its hard to believe its almost December. We are so conditioned by the seasons, that 90 degrees daily has us thinking its still August. I am ready for the State Fair it feels like.
Last week we decided it would be a great cultural experience to go to a big screen and watch local hero Manny Pacquiao fight. The match was just a couple hours away in China and being shown on Sunday morning. Manny is fighting the local version of the IRS on taxes, but otherwise... he is regarded as a national hero. He is a Congressman, boxer, and the locals LOVE him. I talked to a few people and he embodies the spirit of the common Filipino. He grew up dirt poor and was able to make the most of his life. He brings hope.
The day before the fight, Suzy and I went to the cinema to get advanced tickets. One chooses their seats for this so we thought it was a good time. Our jaws dropped when we saw about 100 people in line. "Oh no!" We figured we would never get tickets. Well it wasn't manny people were in line for. I forgot it was Hunger Games 2 time. We were able to procure our seats and be on our way. The poster said 8 am.. Ok... 8 am fight we are there.
Sunday arrives. I am a little groggy because I was up all night following Iowa beating Michigan. Suzy was groggy because Saturday is a tough sleeping day/night for her. She gets home Saturday AM and its tough adjusting. We head to the Cinema for the Sunday fights and NO one is around. Well I look at the ticket and its actually 9 am. GREAT. We then stumble down from the 4th floor (the mall down escalator was off) and head to a coffee shop. A cup of joe later, we wasted time and it was 9 am.
Trip #2 to the cinema still didnt have a lot of people there. Fights were on and the screen had a countdown until Pacquiao/Rios. What it didn't say is that it was the countdown until the PPV began, not the fight. Now, poor Suzy is not a boxing fan. I like it, but she does not. So getting her there for 2-3 fights was going to be a chore, 2-3 fights and then a full undercard... OH my! I owe her big time.
PPV begins finally and we take advantage of freebies. our 700 peso ticket (15 bucks) also got us a hot dog on a stick and a box of milk. We watched the first fight and ate our hot dog and drank cow's milk in a box. The 3rd fight we caught a break as one fighter said his version of "No Mas" after the 3rd round and quit. by the time of the fight before the main event, it was a full house.
Finally, time for Pacquiao v. Rios. First the United States National Anthem was played. We sure felt a sense of pride. Although we were rooting for Pac Man, it is a big deal. Then the Philippines National Anthem was sung... wow, what an experience. It wasn't Jim Cornelison Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Finals, but it was cool. People were singing loudly. I could appreciate their pride.
"Let's get ready to Rumblllllllllllllllle!"
The fight itself was fairly anti-climactic. Congressman Pacquiao dominated the whole fight. What was fun was feeling wach punch through the sounds on the screen and the sounds of the crowd. They were over dramatic on each punch. Then came the Chants. "Manny, Manny, Manny!" and "Pac-ee-ow!" That lasted 12 rounds. It was loud.
Finally, after a beat down ... 12 rounds were complete and it was time to get to the scorecards. Manny wins! WHOO HOOO! The crowd went nuts... One lady tried videotaping the screen. It was fun to see an usher swoop in and enforce their strict no video policy. DELETE DELETE DELETE. Whew, because I was going to take a picture of the final results...
The fight was over, it was 1:30 and our nearly 6 hour odyssey had reached its final round. Ding Ding. For a part of the day, I felt as if I was also part of the Filipino spirit. With so much going on... it was nice to see some good news for the people down here.
Take care of yourselves Everyone.
Chuck
Friday, November 15, 2013
Chilling in the Philippines---Waiting in line
November 15, 2013
Doubleheader blog day!
Hi all! Thanks again to everyone for their thoughts during this incredibly difficult time for a lot of this country.
In the two and a half months here, I am now going through my second cold. This one coincided with running out of my vitamin supply I had brought from home so it was time to stock up. Vitamins, any medications like Tylenol, or cough syrup, condoms, and many other items are all held behind a counter here at either a drug store or the supermarket. For cold relief, per se, one tells the clerk their symptoms and they come back with pills.
I went out on a trip to do some errands... our condo doesn't have an actual oven, just a stove top and the toaster oven is adequate, but not overwhelming. So Suzy gave me a task to do some price shopping for toasters. I made out an index card with a checklist of the features we wanted and included space to take notes on each model from the different shops. Our current toaster cooks at 250 degrees Fahrenheit. We are wanting something with a little more power. Unfortunately, 250 was the high from what I could find. I traipsed all over the mall. If this was a Family Circus Comic PJ's footsteps would have been everywhere. Unfortunately, I was unable to provide any candidates for Suzy. Now that chore has been done, time to go vitamin shopping.
Due to surgery I had over a decade ago, I have been on a daily dose of children's chewable vitamins with extra vitamin C. Wal Mart had a good store brand, but in June it was off the shelves so I had been making do with Flintstones +C. I went the drug store counter of our local Robinson's Supermarket and replied to the obligatory "HI SIR!" with "Hi, Children's Chewable multi-vitamin plus vitamin C please?"
Granted before I got a chance to ask, I was cut in front of. This happens all the time and I really struggle with it. The people here do not think it is a big deal. They do not hold doors for people or thank one for holding the door. Little things I am adjusting to. The lady at the counter said, "Vitamin C?"
"Yes, Children's chewable vitamin plus Vitamin C."
"Yes sir."
The lady goes back and a few minute later comes back with two different bottles. I asked,"Do you have them combined?" The lady sported a glazed over look on her face and replied, "no, sir." So I shelled out the equivalent of $8 for what is usually 5 or 6 in the states. I took my vitamins and before going home decided to go over a block to a place by the cinemas and get a 32 ounce soda as those are a rarity over here. I got a coke light and took respite in an oversized chair in the food court. As I watched people head to see Thor at one of the 6 screens it is showing on, I looked at my new vitamins-- might as well dose up. To my surprise and dismay, I was sold Ascorbic Acid Vitamin C tablets (which taste just like St. Joseph Children's Aspirin) and Vitamin C gummies. I was not sold a multi-vitamin.
I crawled out of the comfortable chair and made the walk of shame over to Robinson's.
"HI SIR!"
"Children's Chewable vitamin, please?"
"Yes sir."
She was glazed over as ever and after a few minutes came back with a children's multi-vitamin. These were $8 by themselves. Yikes. However, at least I am stocked up for the next 60 days and do not have to worry about this again for awhile.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The following morning Suzy got home from work and we decided to walk to KFC for breakfast. They have decent breakfast food. For the majority of islanders here breakfast, lunch and dinner consists of rice and something else. KFC does not have biscuits, but has rice with all meals. We got to the line, avoided getting cut in front ofm and was greeted with "HI MA'AM-SIR!"... Suzy got some chicken and I ordered a local sausage platter called Longganisa and a Longganisa burger.
When ordering, whether it be McDonald's, KFC, or Jollibee (the Filipino equivalent to McDonald's--they are everywhere) there is a push to do everything as a value meal first and it is important to say ala carte for sandwich only. I said a la carte to the lady. She then put it in as a value meal with a drink much like the platter I had ordered. I tried to explain what I wanted and then suddenly, a very familiar glazed over look came upon the lady. We finally got things fixed and went to wait in line to pick up our order.
After a few minutes, the counter attendant approached us, "HI MA'AM-SIR! Longganisa burger take 10 minutes--ok?"
"No, not ok. I do not want then."
"5 minutes!"
What? One can barter with the prep time for cooking longganisa patties? Maybe I should hold out for 3 minutes.
"No, please remove."
"OK, Ma'am Sir."
We thought maybe she would reimburse us the 29 pesos (65 cents) for the burger, but I was incorrect. I guess that is the cost of not waiting 10 or 5 minutes.
We got home and of course mine was stone cold. Oh well. I like cold rice.
Could have been worse, at least they didn't give me two kinds of vitamin c there.
Thanks all, take care of yourselves.
Chuck
Doubleheader blog day!
Hi all! Thanks again to everyone for their thoughts during this incredibly difficult time for a lot of this country.
In the two and a half months here, I am now going through my second cold. This one coincided with running out of my vitamin supply I had brought from home so it was time to stock up. Vitamins, any medications like Tylenol, or cough syrup, condoms, and many other items are all held behind a counter here at either a drug store or the supermarket. For cold relief, per se, one tells the clerk their symptoms and they come back with pills.
I went out on a trip to do some errands... our condo doesn't have an actual oven, just a stove top and the toaster oven is adequate, but not overwhelming. So Suzy gave me a task to do some price shopping for toasters. I made out an index card with a checklist of the features we wanted and included space to take notes on each model from the different shops. Our current toaster cooks at 250 degrees Fahrenheit. We are wanting something with a little more power. Unfortunately, 250 was the high from what I could find. I traipsed all over the mall. If this was a Family Circus Comic PJ's footsteps would have been everywhere. Unfortunately, I was unable to provide any candidates for Suzy. Now that chore has been done, time to go vitamin shopping.
Due to surgery I had over a decade ago, I have been on a daily dose of children's chewable vitamins with extra vitamin C. Wal Mart had a good store brand, but in June it was off the shelves so I had been making do with Flintstones +C. I went the drug store counter of our local Robinson's Supermarket and replied to the obligatory "HI SIR!" with "Hi, Children's Chewable multi-vitamin plus vitamin C please?"
Granted before I got a chance to ask, I was cut in front of. This happens all the time and I really struggle with it. The people here do not think it is a big deal. They do not hold doors for people or thank one for holding the door. Little things I am adjusting to. The lady at the counter said, "Vitamin C?"
"Yes, Children's chewable vitamin plus Vitamin C."
"Yes sir."
The lady goes back and a few minute later comes back with two different bottles. I asked,"Do you have them combined?" The lady sported a glazed over look on her face and replied, "no, sir." So I shelled out the equivalent of $8 for what is usually 5 or 6 in the states. I took my vitamins and before going home decided to go over a block to a place by the cinemas and get a 32 ounce soda as those are a rarity over here. I got a coke light and took respite in an oversized chair in the food court. As I watched people head to see Thor at one of the 6 screens it is showing on, I looked at my new vitamins-- might as well dose up. To my surprise and dismay, I was sold Ascorbic Acid Vitamin C tablets (which taste just like St. Joseph Children's Aspirin) and Vitamin C gummies. I was not sold a multi-vitamin.
I crawled out of the comfortable chair and made the walk of shame over to Robinson's.
"HI SIR!"
"Children's Chewable vitamin, please?"
"Yes sir."
She was glazed over as ever and after a few minutes came back with a children's multi-vitamin. These were $8 by themselves. Yikes. However, at least I am stocked up for the next 60 days and do not have to worry about this again for awhile.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The following morning Suzy got home from work and we decided to walk to KFC for breakfast. They have decent breakfast food. For the majority of islanders here breakfast, lunch and dinner consists of rice and something else. KFC does not have biscuits, but has rice with all meals. We got to the line, avoided getting cut in front ofm and was greeted with "HI MA'AM-SIR!"... Suzy got some chicken and I ordered a local sausage platter called Longganisa and a Longganisa burger.
When ordering, whether it be McDonald's, KFC, or Jollibee (the Filipino equivalent to McDonald's--they are everywhere) there is a push to do everything as a value meal first and it is important to say ala carte for sandwich only. I said a la carte to the lady. She then put it in as a value meal with a drink much like the platter I had ordered. I tried to explain what I wanted and then suddenly, a very familiar glazed over look came upon the lady. We finally got things fixed and went to wait in line to pick up our order.
After a few minutes, the counter attendant approached us, "HI MA'AM-SIR! Longganisa burger take 10 minutes--ok?"
"No, not ok. I do not want then."
"5 minutes!"
What? One can barter with the prep time for cooking longganisa patties? Maybe I should hold out for 3 minutes.
"No, please remove."
"OK, Ma'am Sir."
We thought maybe she would reimburse us the 29 pesos (65 cents) for the burger, but I was incorrect. I guess that is the cost of not waiting 10 or 5 minutes.
We got home and of course mine was stone cold. Oh well. I like cold rice.
Could have been worse, at least they didn't give me two kinds of vitamin c there.
Thanks all, take care of yourselves.
Chuck
Chilling in the Philippines--How to help victims of Haiyan
November 15, 2013
Good day all!
A lot of you have asked Suzy and I about how to help out here and that is very appreciated. We have been rounding up water bottles, canned goods and other essentials for a local drive. I know some of you have also already sent donations and that is great. I found a comprehensive list from the Christian Science Monitor with links to the different charities.
1. The International Committee of the Red Cross and the Philippine Red Cross are accepting donations and coordinating disaster relief on location. Follow the Philippine Red Cross on Facebook and Twitter for updates.
2. World Food Program, which delivers emergency food aid, is accepting donations online and through PayPal.
3. UNICEF Philippines is accepting donations online to provide children affected by the typhoon with drinkable water, hygiene supplies, food and shelter.
4. Catholic Relief Services aims to provide 100,000 families with shelter, water, sanitation, and essential living supplies. It is accepting donations online.
5. American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee is accepting online donations for addressing survivors’ immediate needs.
6. World Vision is accepting online donations to help 400,000 people meet the most urgent needs of food, clean water, and emergency shelter.
7. Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders) is rushing personnel and supplies to provide medical care in the affected areas. It is accepting donations online.
8. The Salvation Army is on the ground meeting the immediate needs of survivors, providing food, water, and shelter. It is accepting donations online.
9. Caritas Manila, a Catholic charity, is accepting donations online and through wire transfers.
10. International Rescue Committee has mobilized an emergency response team to provide clean water and hygiene and sanitation supplies to survivors. It is accepting donations online.
11. Global Giving, a charity fundraising website, is accepting donations to its Typhoon Haiyan Relief Fund to support immediate relief and longer-term recovery.
Thank you all and take care of yourselves!
Chuck
Good day all!
A lot of you have asked Suzy and I about how to help out here and that is very appreciated. We have been rounding up water bottles, canned goods and other essentials for a local drive. I know some of you have also already sent donations and that is great. I found a comprehensive list from the Christian Science Monitor with links to the different charities.
1. The International Committee of the Red Cross and the Philippine Red Cross are accepting donations and coordinating disaster relief on location. Follow the Philippine Red Cross on Facebook and Twitter for updates.
2. World Food Program, which delivers emergency food aid, is accepting donations online and through PayPal.
3. UNICEF Philippines is accepting donations online to provide children affected by the typhoon with drinkable water, hygiene supplies, food and shelter.
4. Catholic Relief Services aims to provide 100,000 families with shelter, water, sanitation, and essential living supplies. It is accepting donations online.
5. American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee is accepting online donations for addressing survivors’ immediate needs.
6. World Vision is accepting online donations to help 400,000 people meet the most urgent needs of food, clean water, and emergency shelter.
7. Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders) is rushing personnel and supplies to provide medical care in the affected areas. It is accepting donations online.
8. The Salvation Army is on the ground meeting the immediate needs of survivors, providing food, water, and shelter. It is accepting donations online.
9. Caritas Manila, a Catholic charity, is accepting donations online and through wire transfers.
10. International Rescue Committee has mobilized an emergency response team to provide clean water and hygiene and sanitation supplies to survivors. It is accepting donations online.
11. Global Giving, a charity fundraising website, is accepting donations to its Typhoon Haiyan Relief Fund to support immediate relief and longer-term recovery.
Thank you all and take care of yourselves!
Chuck
Saturday, November 9, 2013
Chilling in the Philippines--HAIYAN
November 09, 2013
WHEW what a long week. This was I guess a once in a lifetime experience, but I hope this is the only time.
Monday or so I saw that a Typhoon was on its way and the Philippines was in the path. Haiyan is the international name, locally she was called Yolanda. It looked as if Yolanda was going to go straight over central Philippines, which was already reeling from a 7.1 earthquake a few weeks ago.
Definition time--Per the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA) "Hurricanes, cyclones, and typhoons are all the same weather phenomenon; we just use different names for these storms in different places. In the Atlantic and Northeast Pacific, the term “hurricane” is used. The same type of disturbance in the Northwest Pacific is called a “typhoon” and “cyclones” occur in the South Pacific and Indian Ocean.
The ingredients for these storms include a pre-existing weather disturbance, warm tropical oceans, moisture, and relatively light winds. If the right conditions persist long enough, they can combine to produce the violent winds, incredible waves, torrential rains, and floods we associate with this phenomenon."
Now, living in Iowa most of my life, I know how to deal with storms. The sirens go off -- duck for cover. Big snow is coming (maybe it does, maybe it doesn't) set out the shovel. It is weird being in the path of the storm 3 days away that is so big that course is not changing a whole lot nor is it likely going to dissipate over the ocean. Suzy and I did our best guess on the path. We figured we were in the way, but not in immediate danger. Suzy, though had employees in Cebu who were more in the danger path... so she had to make sure they were all safe. Typhoons occur often (about 20 a year) and the locals do what they can to prepare. This isn't their first rodeo, even if this is the largest typhoon in history.
When snow is going to hit in Iowa, It is an all out media blitz. People run to the stores, stock up on supplies and generally act as if the apocalypse is upon us all. I am guilty. We may have a full freezer and pantry, but Holy heck-- we may be snowed in for TWO days so I better get to Hy-Vee and buy some bread, milk and water. Here-- nope. A lot of people get food for the day. I do a lot of daily shopping-- its easy when the grocery store is 100 yards away. But with the storm on its way-- No real difference. Just me, getting bread and water (can't trust the milk yet).
Thursday I stocked up and prepared for the rain... Now it rains often this time of year and without warning anyway. Dry season starts next month. But when it started raining I was prepared. The other typhoon that hit, Usagi (aka Odette) a month ago knocked power out a little and cable. It was a category 5. I was ready now. I had a flashlight holstered and made sure Vince was taken out so he wouldn't want to piddle during a deluge.
The rain was survivable and when I woke up Friday, Yolanda was announcing her presence with Authority. She was hammering the Central Islands. The storm was about 1200 miles long and massively wide so we were going to get some backlash. Friday day it drizzled and was just an eerie gray out all day. I took out Vinny around 430 and thank goodness as right after sporadic torrential rain would hit. It was like a wave... pouring rain... drizzle... poring rain... drizzle. Suzy left for work and the wind started whipping up. The rain stayed at a drizzle with 70 mph winds. It was unlike anything I had ever experienced.
We made it through the night... Vinny did not like the incessant rattling of the windows. Either did I, for that matter. Suzy got home and collectively I let out a HUGE sigh of relief. I knew the worst was probably over and we were all going to be fine...All of Suzy's employees were accounted for. The winds stayed crazy until about 5 pm and there were a couple periods of rain. 24 hours of extremely strong winds... No real damage-- some of the palm trees lost leaves, the lamppost by our balcony got a little tilty but it can be fixed. We really saw not a lot of local structural damage. Since this is a newer area, I am sure that the engineering to safeguard against mother nature played a huge role. We have not toured Manila yet to see how the other areas fared. From the looks on tv, not as well. We were lucky. I do want to thank EVERYONE for their thoughts and prayers. When Suzy accepted the move, we knew what we signed up for. I maybe didn't realize we would survive the strongest typhoon in history, but we thank everyone for taking a moment to check on us, to read our updates and to offer encouragement.
This certainly has been a life changing first couple months for me. One learns a lot about themselves when they are in an unfamiliar area experiencing new things. I've made a couple new friends and been able to see things that just aren't in Iowa. One of the servers from Fridays is moving to Canada. I was excited to tell him about snow and to dress warm. Literally he doesn't know what 59 degrees Fahrenheit feels like. Or snow. He will.
Thanks again everyone for your thoughts and prayers. our thoughts go to all of the locals who are coping with loss of loved one and/or loss of property. I hope we never have to live through something like that again, but if we do... I will be prepared.
WHEW what a long week. This was I guess a once in a lifetime experience, but I hope this is the only time.
Monday or so I saw that a Typhoon was on its way and the Philippines was in the path. Haiyan is the international name, locally she was called Yolanda. It looked as if Yolanda was going to go straight over central Philippines, which was already reeling from a 7.1 earthquake a few weeks ago.
Definition time--Per the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA) "Hurricanes, cyclones, and typhoons are all the same weather phenomenon; we just use different names for these storms in different places. In the Atlantic and Northeast Pacific, the term “hurricane” is used. The same type of disturbance in the Northwest Pacific is called a “typhoon” and “cyclones” occur in the South Pacific and Indian Ocean.
The ingredients for these storms include a pre-existing weather disturbance, warm tropical oceans, moisture, and relatively light winds. If the right conditions persist long enough, they can combine to produce the violent winds, incredible waves, torrential rains, and floods we associate with this phenomenon."
Now, living in Iowa most of my life, I know how to deal with storms. The sirens go off -- duck for cover. Big snow is coming (maybe it does, maybe it doesn't) set out the shovel. It is weird being in the path of the storm 3 days away that is so big that course is not changing a whole lot nor is it likely going to dissipate over the ocean. Suzy and I did our best guess on the path. We figured we were in the way, but not in immediate danger. Suzy, though had employees in Cebu who were more in the danger path... so she had to make sure they were all safe. Typhoons occur often (about 20 a year) and the locals do what they can to prepare. This isn't their first rodeo, even if this is the largest typhoon in history.
When snow is going to hit in Iowa, It is an all out media blitz. People run to the stores, stock up on supplies and generally act as if the apocalypse is upon us all. I am guilty. We may have a full freezer and pantry, but Holy heck-- we may be snowed in for TWO days so I better get to Hy-Vee and buy some bread, milk and water. Here-- nope. A lot of people get food for the day. I do a lot of daily shopping-- its easy when the grocery store is 100 yards away. But with the storm on its way-- No real difference. Just me, getting bread and water (can't trust the milk yet).
Thursday I stocked up and prepared for the rain... Now it rains often this time of year and without warning anyway. Dry season starts next month. But when it started raining I was prepared. The other typhoon that hit, Usagi (aka Odette) a month ago knocked power out a little and cable. It was a category 5. I was ready now. I had a flashlight holstered and made sure Vince was taken out so he wouldn't want to piddle during a deluge.
The rain was survivable and when I woke up Friday, Yolanda was announcing her presence with Authority. She was hammering the Central Islands. The storm was about 1200 miles long and massively wide so we were going to get some backlash. Friday day it drizzled and was just an eerie gray out all day. I took out Vinny around 430 and thank goodness as right after sporadic torrential rain would hit. It was like a wave... pouring rain... drizzle... poring rain... drizzle. Suzy left for work and the wind started whipping up. The rain stayed at a drizzle with 70 mph winds. It was unlike anything I had ever experienced.
We made it through the night... Vinny did not like the incessant rattling of the windows. Either did I, for that matter. Suzy got home and collectively I let out a HUGE sigh of relief. I knew the worst was probably over and we were all going to be fine...All of Suzy's employees were accounted for. The winds stayed crazy until about 5 pm and there were a couple periods of rain. 24 hours of extremely strong winds... No real damage-- some of the palm trees lost leaves, the lamppost by our balcony got a little tilty but it can be fixed. We really saw not a lot of local structural damage. Since this is a newer area, I am sure that the engineering to safeguard against mother nature played a huge role. We have not toured Manila yet to see how the other areas fared. From the looks on tv, not as well. We were lucky. I do want to thank EVERYONE for their thoughts and prayers. When Suzy accepted the move, we knew what we signed up for. I maybe didn't realize we would survive the strongest typhoon in history, but we thank everyone for taking a moment to check on us, to read our updates and to offer encouragement.
This certainly has been a life changing first couple months for me. One learns a lot about themselves when they are in an unfamiliar area experiencing new things. I've made a couple new friends and been able to see things that just aren't in Iowa. One of the servers from Fridays is moving to Canada. I was excited to tell him about snow and to dress warm. Literally he doesn't know what 59 degrees Fahrenheit feels like. Or snow. He will.
Thanks again everyone for your thoughts and prayers. our thoughts go to all of the locals who are coping with loss of loved one and/or loss of property. I hope we never have to live through something like that again, but if we do... I will be prepared.
Friday, November 1, 2013
Chilling in the Philippines--At the Movies, Election Day, & the post office
November 01. 2013
Happy All Saints Day!
Hi everyone, hope you all are doing well...
Last Sunday Suzy and I went to see Gravity. In the states we probably went to 6 movies a year, so after being here 2 months, I guess we are on pace. Before reviewing the movie here are some tidbits on our experience. In the Philippines, going to the movies is like going to a ballgame. First, ticket purchasing means choosing your seats. Its not like the first come, first serve in the U.S. They have a seat chart on a monitor and one calls out the seat numbers they want. There are 7 screens in the Eastwood city complex. Screens 5-7 are by us in the 4th floor of the mall and the other 4 are in what is called the Citywalk across the street, also 4th floor. Gravity was at both screen 1 and screen 7 but the difference is Screen 7 is called ULTRA.
Let me tell you, ULTRA means ULTRA. Ive never been so pampered. Tickets were more; They were 400 pesos each. That's about 9 bucks. For 9 bucks... one gets: ticket, unlimited popcorn, unlimited soda. They had 4 different flavors of popcorn to choose from but buttered popcorn was an extra 10 pesos. I splurged. We walked in and I swear the hallelujah choir was playing. It was incredible; 7 rows of stadium seating featuring 10 huge leather recliners in groups of two. These werent seats that merely rocked, these were top of the line Lazy boy style. I kicked out the footrest and relaxed. Before the movie, the Philippine National Anthem played. That was interesting. I think the United States should do that.
Now, the movie-- well after like 10 future attractions. Gravity was intense. We were lower and reclined and it was like all the action was above us. Suzy and I both liked it. It had some twists and turns and both George Clooney and Sandra Bullock were stellar. Great film. The sights and sounds were so state of the art that I was drained after that. We got home and had no energy... We both gave it 4 stars out of 5.
I had so much fun Sunday, I decided Monday night to go see Escape plan starring Sylvester Stallone and Arnold Schwarzenegger. The late Mike Royko once wrote, "I never went to a John Wayne movie to find a philosphy to live by or to absorb a profound message. I went for the simple pleasure of spending a couple of hours seeing the bad guys lose." Thats like me with Arnold and Sly movies. Kick some butt, and have some fun. Now Sly does have a line that does have some symbolism for today-- he says that in escaping prison there's 3 things one needs: knowledge of the layout, knowledge of the routine, and help from the outside. One can parallel that to life. Enough philosophy... the movie was about escaping a max prison. It was classic action movie. 50 cent was good in it. The ending was abrupt. Other than that, it was exactly what I wished for. I give it 3 stars. It was in Theatre 4... across the street. It was more like what we see at the new theatres in the states. 200 seats that rocked back, and stadium seating. It was pick your own seat so I picked middle center. those tickets were 200 peso and did not include unlimited ammenities. No problem.
Before the movie on Monday, I went to Friday's to have a pre-movie beverage. The manager, Ces advised me that it was election day and there were no liquor sales during election day (or the day before). I had no idea. I like that. I didn't realize it was election day. We do not watch a ton of Filipino TV channels, but I hadn't seen one election commercial. Maybe they could do that in the U.S., too. In the streets of Quezon City and Manila, there were flyers with candidate pics everywhere, but nothing on tv. The flyers looked more like wanted posters. Because it was election day, all government offices were closed and we had received notice on Saturday that Customs had held up a package to us.
My folks and Suzy's friend Kristi both sent us packages 3 weeks ago. It was interesting that when it arrived, my Moms, which included a letter and a copy of the latest Packer Report made it and Kristi's (bills, refund checks, and a copy of Birds and Blooms Magazine) was held up. We have a favorite concierge in our building. His name is Ederick and although he doesn't speak a lot of English, he is quite helpful and cheerful. I enlisted him to flag a cab for me Tuesday AM and explain exactly where I needed to go. On a map, the Quezon City Post Office doesn't seem too far away. It's not far from Smart Araneta arena and I knew that was 20 minutes during brutal Friday traffic. Well Tuesday morning construction is bad, too. It was the longest cab ride I had been on and cost 197.50 pesos (5 bucks). A cab ride begins at 40 pesos. I had seen some poor parts of Manila but most of that was at night and in the rain. This was daytime and sunny. There were areas with glorified shantys everywhere. It was third world. Wow. makes me think.
We made it to the Post office and in true Amazing Race style, I asked the cabbie to wait for me so he could take me home. That post office was interesting. It looked like a fort, and not real big considering it serves millions of people. The ticket I had said to go to window 37. There were 39 windows and each had its own purpose. I went to window 37 and presented my ticket. They then sent me to Window 36 to pay 50 pesos as a pickup fee. Once paid, Window 36 sent me to Window 39 to pick up my package. We bought a couple cards to send back to the states and see how long it takes going the other way. Window 39 sent me to Window 14. Window 14 weighed the items and then I went to Window 15 to buy the stamps. Only 125 pesos total. not bad! Once stamps were purchased, they gave me a container with some putty in it to affix the stamps. Then Window 15 sent me to Window 21 to actually mail them. I felt like I was in a Bill Murray movie just bouncing from one Window to another. My cabbie was still there (Thank goodness) and we headed back. He made a little better time coming back (185 pesos) and I tipped him for his time.
It hasn't been raining as much now as we slowly transition to more of the dry season. Today though, right before Suzy was to go to work, the skies opened up... That will slow up her trip. I will be glad when those go away for the next 6 months. She was already having a tough day, her hair dryer blew up. I guess we get to go shopping for that tomorrow.
The Philippines do not roll their clocks back so central time now will be 14 hours behind us come Sunday. Mountain 15. Whew. It has been fun explaining that to the locals. That seems like a weird concept to them.
Well that is all for now... Take care of yourself everyone and talk to you soon!
Chuck
Happy All Saints Day!
Hi everyone, hope you all are doing well...
Last Sunday Suzy and I went to see Gravity. In the states we probably went to 6 movies a year, so after being here 2 months, I guess we are on pace. Before reviewing the movie here are some tidbits on our experience. In the Philippines, going to the movies is like going to a ballgame. First, ticket purchasing means choosing your seats. Its not like the first come, first serve in the U.S. They have a seat chart on a monitor and one calls out the seat numbers they want. There are 7 screens in the Eastwood city complex. Screens 5-7 are by us in the 4th floor of the mall and the other 4 are in what is called the Citywalk across the street, also 4th floor. Gravity was at both screen 1 and screen 7 but the difference is Screen 7 is called ULTRA.
Let me tell you, ULTRA means ULTRA. Ive never been so pampered. Tickets were more; They were 400 pesos each. That's about 9 bucks. For 9 bucks... one gets: ticket, unlimited popcorn, unlimited soda. They had 4 different flavors of popcorn to choose from but buttered popcorn was an extra 10 pesos. I splurged. We walked in and I swear the hallelujah choir was playing. It was incredible; 7 rows of stadium seating featuring 10 huge leather recliners in groups of two. These werent seats that merely rocked, these were top of the line Lazy boy style. I kicked out the footrest and relaxed. Before the movie, the Philippine National Anthem played. That was interesting. I think the United States should do that.
Now, the movie-- well after like 10 future attractions. Gravity was intense. We were lower and reclined and it was like all the action was above us. Suzy and I both liked it. It had some twists and turns and both George Clooney and Sandra Bullock were stellar. Great film. The sights and sounds were so state of the art that I was drained after that. We got home and had no energy... We both gave it 4 stars out of 5.
I had so much fun Sunday, I decided Monday night to go see Escape plan starring Sylvester Stallone and Arnold Schwarzenegger. The late Mike Royko once wrote, "I never went to a John Wayne movie to find a philosphy to live by or to absorb a profound message. I went for the simple pleasure of spending a couple of hours seeing the bad guys lose." Thats like me with Arnold and Sly movies. Kick some butt, and have some fun. Now Sly does have a line that does have some symbolism for today-- he says that in escaping prison there's 3 things one needs: knowledge of the layout, knowledge of the routine, and help from the outside. One can parallel that to life. Enough philosophy... the movie was about escaping a max prison. It was classic action movie. 50 cent was good in it. The ending was abrupt. Other than that, it was exactly what I wished for. I give it 3 stars. It was in Theatre 4... across the street. It was more like what we see at the new theatres in the states. 200 seats that rocked back, and stadium seating. It was pick your own seat so I picked middle center. those tickets were 200 peso and did not include unlimited ammenities. No problem.
Before the movie on Monday, I went to Friday's to have a pre-movie beverage. The manager, Ces advised me that it was election day and there were no liquor sales during election day (or the day before). I had no idea. I like that. I didn't realize it was election day. We do not watch a ton of Filipino TV channels, but I hadn't seen one election commercial. Maybe they could do that in the U.S., too. In the streets of Quezon City and Manila, there were flyers with candidate pics everywhere, but nothing on tv. The flyers looked more like wanted posters. Because it was election day, all government offices were closed and we had received notice on Saturday that Customs had held up a package to us.
My folks and Suzy's friend Kristi both sent us packages 3 weeks ago. It was interesting that when it arrived, my Moms, which included a letter and a copy of the latest Packer Report made it and Kristi's (bills, refund checks, and a copy of Birds and Blooms Magazine) was held up. We have a favorite concierge in our building. His name is Ederick and although he doesn't speak a lot of English, he is quite helpful and cheerful. I enlisted him to flag a cab for me Tuesday AM and explain exactly where I needed to go. On a map, the Quezon City Post Office doesn't seem too far away. It's not far from Smart Araneta arena and I knew that was 20 minutes during brutal Friday traffic. Well Tuesday morning construction is bad, too. It was the longest cab ride I had been on and cost 197.50 pesos (5 bucks). A cab ride begins at 40 pesos. I had seen some poor parts of Manila but most of that was at night and in the rain. This was daytime and sunny. There were areas with glorified shantys everywhere. It was third world. Wow. makes me think.
We made it to the Post office and in true Amazing Race style, I asked the cabbie to wait for me so he could take me home. That post office was interesting. It looked like a fort, and not real big considering it serves millions of people. The ticket I had said to go to window 37. There were 39 windows and each had its own purpose. I went to window 37 and presented my ticket. They then sent me to Window 36 to pay 50 pesos as a pickup fee. Once paid, Window 36 sent me to Window 39 to pick up my package. We bought a couple cards to send back to the states and see how long it takes going the other way. Window 39 sent me to Window 14. Window 14 weighed the items and then I went to Window 15 to buy the stamps. Only 125 pesos total. not bad! Once stamps were purchased, they gave me a container with some putty in it to affix the stamps. Then Window 15 sent me to Window 21 to actually mail them. I felt like I was in a Bill Murray movie just bouncing from one Window to another. My cabbie was still there (Thank goodness) and we headed back. He made a little better time coming back (185 pesos) and I tipped him for his time.
It hasn't been raining as much now as we slowly transition to more of the dry season. Today though, right before Suzy was to go to work, the skies opened up... That will slow up her trip. I will be glad when those go away for the next 6 months. She was already having a tough day, her hair dryer blew up. I guess we get to go shopping for that tomorrow.
The Philippines do not roll their clocks back so central time now will be 14 hours behind us come Sunday. Mountain 15. Whew. It has been fun explaining that to the locals. That seems like a weird concept to them.
Well that is all for now... Take care of yourself everyone and talk to you soon!
Chuck
I
never went to a John Wayne movie to find a philosophy to live by or to
absorb a profound message. I went for the simple pleasure of spending a
couple of hours seeing the bad guys lose.
Read more at http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/authors/m/mike_royko.html#LvhWmKAvoS3x1zTh.99
Read more at http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/authors/m/mike_royko.html#LvhWmKAvoS3x1zTh.99
I
never went to a John Wayne movie to find a philosophy to live by or to
absorb a profound message. I went for the simple pleasure of spending a
couple of hours seeing the bad guys lose.
Read more at http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/authors/m/mike_royko.html#LvhWmKAvoS3x1zTh.99
Read more at http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/authors/m/mike_royko.html#LvhWmKAvoS3x1zTh.99
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